Are you searching for an RV trip that’s more than just a place to park? Imagine a destination that combines real American history, thrilling desert adventure, and unforgettable family fun. It’s time to discover Calico Ghost Town in Southern California. This unique park brings together RVers and campers for an incredible experience in a legendary 1880s silver mining town, making it a trip your family will talk about for years.
Calico is much more than a roadside attraction. It’s a place where you can step directly into the Old West, explore stunning desert landscapes, and enjoy a wide range of activities perfect for all ages. Let’s dig into why Calico should be at the top of your RV adventure list.
The Rich History of a Real Ghost Town
One of the first questions people ask is, “Is Calico a real ghost town?” The answer is a resounding yes. You’ll find Calico nestled in the Mojave Desert, a historical gem conveniently located off I-15 between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Its story began in 1881 when prospectors founded the town during California’s massive silver rush. It quickly boomed, and at its peak, Calico was home to over 1,200 people, 500 silver mines, a school, a post office, and multiple saloons.
So, why is it called a ghost town? Like many mining boomtowns, its fate was tied to the value of its minerals. When the price of silver plummeted in the 1890s, the mines became unprofitable. With no work to be found, miners and their families had to leave. They abandoned their homes, shops, and dreams, leaving Calico to the sun and the dust.
For decades, it sat empty. Fortunately, Walter Knott, the visionary founder of Knott’s Berry Farm, saw the historical value in the decaying town. He purchased Calico in the 1950s and began a careful restoration, using old photographs to rebuild it authentically. He eventually donated the town to San Bernardino County, which now preserves it as a regional park for everyone to enjoy.
Why Calico is a Perfect RV Destination
- Easy Access: Its location right off the freeway makes it an incredibly simple stop for RVers on a longer road trip or as a destination in itself.
- Unique Atmosphere: The creak of wooden boardwalks, the authentic buildings, and the vast desert views create a memorable backdrop that you can’t find anywhere else.
- Spacious Camping: The campground was designed with RVs in mind. It easily fits rigs of all sizes, offering a comfortable and convenient base for all your adventures.
The Calico Ghost Town Campground Experience
The campground offers sites that mix modern needs with a rustic setting.
- RV and Trailer Sites: Many sites offer full hookups (electricity, water, and sewer). There are also partial hookup and dry camping sites available to fit any budget. A dump station is on-site for your convenience.
- Amenities: The campground is equipped with restrooms and hot showers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
- Pet-Friendly: Calico is a great destination for the whole family, including your furry members! Pets are welcome in the campground and town, as long as they are on a leash.
- Group Camping Areas: Traveling with friends or an RV club? The group sites provide a perfect space for everyone to gather, share stories, and relax.
- Campground Map: To help you pick the perfect spot for your rig, you can view and download a detailed map of the campground showing all site numbers, hookup types, and amenities. View the Official Campground Map.
At night, the campground becomes a quiet oasis. The desert sky, free from city lights, offers a breathtaking view of the stars. It’s the perfect setting for a campfire and family bonding. Click here for reservations.
Unforgettable Adventures and Activities in Calico
- Explore Historic Main Street: Your first adventure should be a walk through the town itself. Stroll the wooden boardwalks and peek into restored buildings like the one-room schoolhouse, the blacksmith’s shop, and Lane’s General Store. You can feel the history in every step.
- Tour the Maggie Mine: To truly understand Calico’s past, head underground. The self-guided tour of the Maggie Mine takes you into the cool, dark tunnels where miners once chiseled away for silver ore. It’s a fascinating and safe experience for all ages.
- Ride the Calico Odessa Railroad: All aboard! This historic narrow-gauge train takes you on a scenic ride around the hillside, offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mines while a narrator shares stories of Calico’s glory days.
- Go Off-Roading: The desert around Calico is an off-roader’s playground. The Calico OHV area offers hundreds of miles of designated trails for Jeeps, UTVs, and dirt bikes. It’s a thrilling way to experience the rugged beauty of the Mojave.
- Pan for Gold: Give your kids a taste of the prospector’s life! The panning for gold station is a fun, hands-on activity where you can sift through sand and water to find a shiny souvenir.
Is Calico Ghost Town Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Calico offers a unique combination of experiences that make it a fantastic value for families and adventurers. It’s not just a dusty collection of old buildings; it’s an interactive portal to the past. Where else can you explore a real silver mine in the morning, ride a historic train in the afternoon, and camp under the stars at night? The blend of education, entertainment, and outdoor recreation makes Calico Ghost Town a must-visit destination.
Planning Your Visit: Fees, Hours, and Directions
- Directions: Calico is located in Yermo, CA. From I-15, take the Calico Road exit and follow the signs for 3 miles. It’s clearly marked and easy to find.
- Hours of Operation: The town is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except for Christmas Day. The campground is accessible 24/7 for registered campers.
- Entrance Fee & Tickets: There is a per-person daily entrance fee to enter the town. As of late 2025, prices are typically around $8 for adults and $5 for youth (ages 4-11). Children 3 and under are free. Some attractions, like the mine tour and railroad, have small separate fees. For the most current pricing, always check the official park website before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes! For a unique experience, you can rent one of the rustic cabins or a group bunkhouse right in the park. Check the park’s reservation site for availability and cabin prices.
Calico hosts fantastic events year-round, including a Bluegrass festival in the spring, Civil War reenactments, and the very popular “Calico Ghost Haunt” in October. Always check their official events calendar when planning your trip.
Yes, you can get a free map at the entrance when you purchase your tickets. It details all the buildings, attractions, and trails.
A Note from Hitched4fun.com
At Hitched4fun.com, we believe quality time with loved ones is the heart of RVing. Calico offers the perfect chance to unplug and create those lasting memories.
So, pack up your rig and plan your trip to Calico Ghost Town. It’s an adventure your family will treasure.
